Do I have a chance?

[cdshorey]

I'm 34 6'1 and every bit of 285lbs and no phyiscal problems other than being overwieght. The only boxing I have every done is on a bunching bag I have at home and the play oversized boxing gloves at fundraisers. I've wanted for a long time to train and have at least 3 amateur fights. Is it too late for me at my age and weight? If not, how do I get started and could I be ready for a match in under a year? I live in rural Missouri and have not found a boxing gym near by. I am over an hour from KC, Jefferson City and Columbia but I am willing to put in the time. Do I have a chance?

[Sharla]

If you want to fight amateur you might need to check the rules RE age limits with the boxing commission in your area. Where I am the max age is 33 to compete in amateur boxing.

Apart from that I'd find a boxing gym, start training and when you're feeling fit and strong and discuss it with your trainer. After all if you get to that stage you've still achieved a lot, learnt a lot, become much healthier and gotten to see what a most of it is about - the training! You'll also have a better idea of how much time you'd want to put into your training and whether training to compete is going to mesh with the other priorities in your life.

[cdshorey]

Thanks for your thoughts. Looks like the closest boxing gym is nearly 80 miles away. Also, it appears in my state the have a special division for guys over 34 called master novice. Anyway, thanks for your thoughts.